Saturday Sep 01 2007 07:58
Arsenal made a late dip into the transfer market to snap up
Chelsea utility man Lassana Diarra for an undisclosed fee.
The 22-year-old France international, who can play in either defence or midfield, has penned a long-term contract with the Gunners, having seen his first-team opportunities limited at Stamford Bridge.
Diarra joined the Blues in the summer of 2005 from Le Havre, but made only 30 first-team appearances for Jose Mourinho's side.
He told his new club's official website: "I have great respect for the manager Arsene Wenger and am attracted by the style of football that the team plays.
"Of course I am excited by what the future holds and keen to play my part in helping Arsenal fight for trophies this season and for years to come."
Wenger himself added: "Lassana is a multi-functional player, making him a great addition to our squad.
"Not only is he hard working, he has a creative edge and is comfortable playing in the middle of the pitch or at right-back."
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